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Resource Mon Mar 15 2010
Peasants' Plot
Now that we have "sprung forward" and the snow has melted (and hopefully doesn't return) it is time to start thinking about the farmers' market season, and more specifically, CSA shares. CSA stands for Community Supported Agriculture and is a way for you to "invest" in a farm for a season and receive the returns of locally grown, often organic, lovely produce. There are many, many different types of CSAs in the Chicagoland and you can find a 2010 list over at the Local Beet but I want to tell you about the CSA options over at Peasants' Plot.
Peasants' Plot is run by Chicago natives Todd and Julia McDonald. In 2007, they moved from their apartment in Chicago to l a 20-acre plot of land stuck in the middle of corn-and-soybean land just an hour south of downtown Chicago, that was once that of Todd's grandparents. Now in their fourth season of farming, they are seeking new shareholders in their CSA program. Their CSA program is a unique alternative to some of the other options in the Chicagoland area.
First off, their share is only $300 a season and is perfectly sized for 1 or 2 people. Many other CSA shares are better suited to families, or splitting between 2 households. Peasants' Plot is also offering two different ways to really get your hands dirty and work for your organic produce. And Second, If you can commit to working 8 hours every month, either at the farm or by staffing their booth at the weekly farmer's markets, you will be rewarded in produce. More information about there worker shareholder program can be found here. You can also buy a really awesome wooden basket with a shoulder strap for $30.
I met Julia and Todd last summer at the Wicker Park Market and they are really a great couple growing some wonderful produce. Here's to Spring! (and Summer!!!)
